EP0845389B1 - Module steering column switch - Google Patents

Module steering column switch Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0845389B1
EP0845389B1 EP97120640A EP97120640A EP0845389B1 EP 0845389 B1 EP0845389 B1 EP 0845389B1 EP 97120640 A EP97120640 A EP 97120640A EP 97120640 A EP97120640 A EP 97120640A EP 0845389 B1 EP0845389 B1 EP 0845389B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
switching unit
steering shaft
housing
shaft switching
actuation lever
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP97120640A
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German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0845389A2 (en
EP0845389B2 (en
EP0845389A3 (en
Inventor
Trevor Stewart
Ernst Hafner
Wolfgang Huber
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BCS Automotive Interface Solutions GmbH
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BCS Automotive Interface Solutions GmbH
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Publication date
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Application filed by BCS Automotive Interface Solutions GmbH filed Critical BCS Automotive Interface Solutions GmbH
Publication of EP0845389A2 publication Critical patent/EP0845389A2/en
Publication of EP0845389A3 publication Critical patent/EP0845389A3/en
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/02—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments
    • B60Q1/04—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments the devices being headlights
    • B60Q1/14—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments the devices being headlights having dimming means
    • B60Q1/1446—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments the devices being headlights having dimming means controlled by mechanically actuated switches
    • B60Q1/1453—Hand actuated switches
    • B60Q1/1461—Multifunction switches for dimming headlights and controlling additional devices, e.g. for controlling direction indicating lights
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/34—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating change of drive direction
    • B60Q1/40—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating change of drive direction having mechanical, electric or electronic automatic return to inoperative position

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a steering column switch unit with a Housing, according to the preamble of claim 1, in which at least one actuating lever pivots and / or is held displaceably.
  • Such known steering column switch units are usually used in motor vehicles for controlling or actuating lights, wipers, Turn signals and the like used.
  • the present invention is therefore based on the object to create an inexpensive steering column switch unit that includes a wide range of functions and applications and at the same time offers a high level of user comfort.
  • the steering column switch unit Due to the modular structure of a steering column switch unit, the depending on the application profile only by differently assembled Actuator types differ, the manufacturing costs due to the constant up to the operating lever Construction can be significantly reduced. To everyone anyway The steering column switch unit covers all possible applications a counter contact device in the housing which covers all possible switching functions. In the different vehicle types and depending on the equipment installed Steering column switch units only differ in this way through different actuation levers, depending on the type and features a user-friendly selection of the whole Ensure functionality.
  • the mechanical actuation of the lever travel on the respective Vehicle type can be adjusted.
  • the lever path along the locking curve to one predefinable area as well as against a movement transverse to Rest curve can be limited.
  • the operating lever against pulling out, against movement towards Operator towards or away from it, through the different Lever stops are secured.
  • Even missing Functions of the radial positions or positions of the actuating lever can be replaced by a Limitation by at least one stop on a specific one Area of the rest curve balanced in a user-friendly manner become.
  • An otherwise identical structure can be particularly variable Steering column switch unit are held when the locking curve at the end of the lever and the corresponding locking element stationary located in the housing.
  • This arrangement is additionally through a limitation by stops also gives the possibility by simply replacing an operating lever to change the entire grid characteristic.
  • the actuating lever has preferably an additional one at its end region Switching device on.
  • This switching device for example from switches with two or more positions, potentiometers etc. exists, is via a connecting line with a connector located at the assembly end of the operating lever connected.
  • This connector can then be in the housing with a connection device connected to the the maximum number of possible connections completely included. So can not just operating levers with different switching devices be connected to the same connection device, but also operating levers with the same switching device connected to different connections of the connection device become.
  • the contact and the corresponding counter-contact device those for registering the positions of the operating lever can serve in the steering column switch unit according to the invention as usual electromechanical or electrical contacts be trained.
  • the state of the art offers this a variety of implementation options such as closing and Opening of electrical contacts, conductor tracks, actuation of switches and the like.
  • the contact device as at least one magnet and the corresponding one Countercontact device designed as at least one Hall sensor.
  • This variant advantageously works without wear without mechanical friction.
  • Evaluation device could, for example, different signals be linked together.
  • Implementation is also conceivable analog signals such as the Hall sensor values or the resistance values of switches, rotary switches and potentiometers in control signals, for example for a wiper motor, to accommodate this.
  • the evaluation unit can be used to implement these electronic tasks hard-wired or from programmable logic modules be built, even the application of a Microprocessor with firmware is conceivable.
  • the selection of the overall functional scope of the evaluation unit can in turn in the invention by the mounted Levers are influenced.
  • the possibility already described the different contact device, connection device as well as mechanical movement characteristics can a specific selection of the overall functional scope of the evaluation unit serve.
  • an electronic chip similar to a phone card chip, to attach, the connection device or a electronic scanner to select the range of functions serves the evaluation unit.
  • the manufacturing costs can be significantly reduced without the To reduce operator comfort.
  • Different operating levers can advantageously by means of standardized mechanical and electrical connection devices during assembly in the remaining part of the steering column switch unit are used. It is even possible to use automatic detection, which lever type was used, the exact function of the Steering column switch unit in the manufacture of the levers exactly define.
  • Known steering column switch units usually comprise two or three operating levers for different functions, such as for turn signals and flasher, wiper functions and possibly Light.
  • the steering column switch unit shown schematically in Fig. 1 1 comprises a housing 3 concentrically a steering column 5 surrounds a motor vehicle. Inside the case 3 is a schematic of a head 7 of an individual engaging Actuating lever 9 shown without any other Examine existing engaging actuation levers in more detail. For Such further levers apply to the following statements therefore an operating lever 9 accordingly.
  • the actuating lever arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis of the steering column 5 9 is arranged over an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis Axis 11 in a known manner, not shown, in the housing 3 in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the Steering column 5 pivotally mounted.
  • Three-dimensional that can be used for this Storage devices, the transverse and longitudinal swiveling movements, as well as pulling out and pushing in the operating lever allow are sufficient in the prior art known and are here, since not essential to the invention, only represented schematically by mounting the axis 11.
  • the operating lever 9 has at the front end of it Head 7 a locking element 13, which in not shown Way in the direction of a locking curve 15, for example by means of a compression spring arranged in the head 7, with a force is applied.
  • the head 7 of the operating lever 9 points to a side wall lying perpendicular to the axis 11 seated (for example two) magnets 17.
  • This Magnets 17 can, as shown in Fig. 1, in different Distances to the axis 11 may be arranged of course, magnets 17 with the same distance to Axis 11 are next to each other along the same circumferential line can.
  • Hall sensors 21 are located inside the housing a board that is co-planar and spaced apart from the side wall 19, so that between the Hall sensors 21 and the magnets 17th there is little scope.
  • the Hall sensors 19 are in Number and position (three in the example) already planned Actuator lever types with different movement characteristics and their differently positioned magents 17 customized.
  • FIG. 1 are located on the board 19 in different radial Distances to the axis 11 three Hall sensors 21, which, however, in laterally offset in a plane perpendicular to the drawing plane could be. Of course you can in this Level also several Hall sensors 21 on the same circumferential line be arranged side by side.
  • the movement characteristic of an operating lever 9 depends the interaction of a locking curve 15 and the locking element 13 and possible mechanical stops.
  • a part of the interacting parts is stationary in the housing 3 and the complementary part on the head 7 of the operating lever 9 arranged.
  • the locking element 13 on the head 7 of the actuating lever 9 and part complementary to this, namely the concave locking curve 15 stationary inside the housing 3. It goes without saying kinematic reversal is also possible, in which case the locking element 13 is arranged inside the housing 3 and the locking curve 15 convex on the face of the head 7 of the operating lever 9 (embodiment according to FIG. 3).
  • Fig. 2 shows an exploded view of the operating lever 9 as an unmounted single part.
  • the head 7 opposite lying end of the operating lever 9 is as widened Handle area 23 formed, arranged on the actuating elements could be.
  • Fig. 2 are for example on the Underside of the grip area 23 and a pressure switch 25 the front of a toggle switch 27 is arranged.
  • the contacts 29, 30, 31 are connected via a connecting line 35, which runs inside the operating lever 9, with a Plug 37 or its contact pins, not shown, electrically connected.
  • connection device When installing the steering column switch unit 1, this becomes Plug 37 in a on the board 19 or with this connected connection device inserted.
  • the in Fig. 1 connection device can for example be designed as a universal clutch, all of them already Has contacts for a wide variety of lever types.
  • the complementary connector 37 can then be in its outer dimensions correspond exactly to the internal dimensions of the connection device, so that a standardized connection simplifies assembly is guaranteed.
  • the connection device is also conceivable in the form of several connection couplings to train, then depending on which connection coupling the plug 37 is inserted a different range of functions can be selected.
  • the operating lever 9 shown in Fig. 2 shows the possibility on, the head 7 of the operating lever 9 on the front form as a convex locking curve 15.
  • the locking element 13 accordingly in Be arranged inside the housing 3.
  • the locking curve 15 has two side walls 39, 40, which in interaction with the Locking element 13 along a movement transverse to the radial movement prevent the locking curve 15.
  • Such a lever with as Stop serving side walls 39, 40 could for example as a wiper control lever in vehicles without a rear wiper Find use and thus undesirable Avoid mechanical empty positions.
  • On the board 19 (in Fig. 1) can be shown in Electronics are also not only the individual contact states and Hall sensor values, but also evaluates, links and processes them. So it is conceivable, for example, that arranged on the grip area 23 Switch analog signals in the form of different Transmit resistance values that only by means of electronic Logic must be converted into control signal. The exact Function selection of such an evaluation unit, which the maximum number of required functions or signal processing in principle, can then turn depending on the lever type used. example way it is conceivable, a on the board 35 in the operating lever 9 Attach circuit that also over the connecting line 35th communicates with the electronics on board 19. On this type could be electronically recognized by a certain type of lever and in addition to the different contact assignment and mechanical movement characteristics also the range of functions or influence the signal processing.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Switches With Compound Operations (AREA)
  • Steering Controls (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Lenkstockschalteinheit mit einem Gehäuse, gemäß dem Oberbegriff von Anspruch 1, in welchem zumindest ein Betätigungshebel schwenk- und/oder verschiebbar gehalten ist.The invention relates to a steering column switch unit with a Housing, according to the preamble of claim 1, in which at least one actuating lever pivots and / or is held displaceably.

Solche bekannte Lenkstockschalteinheiten werden üblicherweise in Kraftfahrzeugen zur Steuerung bzw. Betätigung von Licht, Scheibenwischer, Blinker und ähnlichem verwendet.Such known steering column switch units are usually used in motor vehicles for controlling or actuating lights, wipers, Turn signals and the like used.

Die zu steuernden Funktionen, wie z.B. zusätzlicher Heckscheibenwischer, Intervallschaltungen usw., hängen dabei von Fahrzeugtyp und Ausstattung ab. Da aus Gründen der Bedienerfreundlichkeit keine Leerschaltstellungen zumutbar sind, mussten Lenkstockschalteinheiten an den jeweils vorhandenen Funktionsumfang angepasst werden. Diese individuelle Anpassung erfolgte bisher beispielsweise durch Ausstausch von Kontakten, Platinen etc. und bedingte so einen unterschiedlichen Aufbau des Großteils der Lenkstockschalteinheit.The functions to be controlled, e.g. additional rear window wiper, Interval switching etc. depend on the vehicle type and equipment. Because for ease of use no empty switch positions are reasonable, had to Steering column switch units to the existing range of functions be adjusted. This individual adjustment So far, this has been done, for example, by exchanging contacts, Circuit boards etc. and thus required a different structure the majority of the steering column switch unit.

Der vorliegenden Erfindung liegt daher die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine kostengünstige Lenkstockschalteinheit zu schaffen, die eine Vielzahl von Funktions- und Anwendungsmöglichkeiten umfasst und gleichzeitig einen hohen Bedienerkomfort bietet.The present invention is therefore based on the object to create an inexpensive steering column switch unit that includes a wide range of functions and applications and at the same time offers a high level of user comfort.

Die Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß mit den Merkmalen des Anspruchs 1 gelöst.The object is achieved with the features of the claim 1 solved.

Durch den modularen Aufbau einer Lenkstockschalteinheit, die sich je nach Anwendungsprofil nur durch unterschiedlich montierte Betätigungshebeltypen unterscheidet, können die Herstellungskosten durch den bis auf den Betätigungshebel gleichbleibenden Aufbau wesentlich gesenkt werden. Um trotzdem alle Anwendungsmöglichkeiten abzudecken, beinhaltet die Lenkstockschalteinheit im Gehäuse eine Gegenkontakteinrichtung, durch die alle möglichen Schaltfunktionen abgedeckt werden. Die in verschiedenen Fahrzeugtypen und je nach Ausstattung installierten Lenkstockschalteinheiten unterscheiden sich so nur noch durch unterschiedliche Betätigungshebel, die je nach Typ und Ausstattung eine bedienerfreundliche Auswahl des gesamten Funktionsumfangs gewährleisten.Due to the modular structure of a steering column switch unit, the depending on the application profile only by differently assembled Actuator types differ, the manufacturing costs due to the constant up to the operating lever Construction can be significantly reduced. To everyone anyway The steering column switch unit covers all possible applications a counter contact device in the housing which covers all possible switching functions. In the different vehicle types and depending on the equipment installed Steering column switch units only differ in this way through different actuation levers, depending on the type and features a user-friendly selection of the whole Ensure functionality.

In einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung kann auch die mechanische Betätigung des Hebelweges an den jeweiligen Fahrzeugtyp angepasst werden. So kann z.B. das übliche Zusammenspiel von Rastelement und Rastkurve durch zusätzliche Anschläge, die sich am in Gehäuse montierten Endbereich des Hebels befinden, der Hebelweg entlang der Rastkurve auf einen vordefinierbaren Bereich sowie gegen eine Bewegung quer zur Rastkurve begrenzt werden. Auf diese Weise kann z.B. der Betätigungshebel gegen ein Herausziehen, gegen eine Bewegung zur Bedienperson hin oder von ihr weg, durch an den unterschiedlichen Hebeln befindliche Anschläge gesichert werden. Hierdurch entstehen bei Fahrzeugen mit geringeren Funktionen beispielsweise bei fehlendem Heckscheibenwischer keine unerwünschten langen Hebelwege oder Leerpositionen. Auch eventuelle fehlende Funktionen der radialen Stellungen bzw. Positionen des Betätigungshebels, wie z.B. fehlende Intervallschaltung eines Scheibenwischers oder fehlende weitere Stufen, können durch eine Begrenzung durch wenigstens einen Anschlag auf einen bestimmten Bereich der Rastkurve bedienerfreundlich ausgeglichen werden.In a preferred embodiment of the invention can also the mechanical actuation of the lever travel on the respective Vehicle type can be adjusted. For example, the usual interaction of locking element and locking curve through additional stops, which are located on the end area of the Lever, the lever path along the locking curve to one predefinable area as well as against a movement transverse to Rest curve can be limited. In this way e.g. the operating lever against pulling out, against movement towards Operator towards or away from it, through the different Lever stops are secured. hereby arise, for example, in vehicles with less functions in the absence of a rear wiper, no undesirable long leverage or empty positions. Even missing Functions of the radial positions or positions of the actuating lever, such as. missing interval switching of a windshield wiper or missing further stages, can be replaced by a Limitation by at least one stop on a specific one Area of the rest curve balanced in a user-friendly manner become.

Besonders variabel kann eine ansonsten gleichartig aufgebaute Lenkstockschalteinheit gehalten werden, wenn sich die Rastkurve am Hebelende und das entsprechende Rastelement ortsfest im Gehäuse befindet. Bei dieser Anordnung ist zusätzlich durch eine Begrenzung durch Anschläge auch die Möglichkeit gegeben, durch einen einfachen Austausch eines Betätigungshebels die gesamte Rastkurvencharakteristik zu verändern. Hierbei können sich auch Rastkurve und Rastelement am Hebelende befinden, wobei dann der gesamte Lagerungsmechanismus am Hebelende ausgebildet ist und sich nach der Montage ein Teil, also Rastkurve oder Rastelement, orstfest mit dem Gehäuse verbunden ist.An otherwise identical structure can be particularly variable Steering column switch unit are held when the locking curve at the end of the lever and the corresponding locking element stationary located in the housing. With this arrangement is additionally through a limitation by stops also gives the possibility by simply replacing an operating lever to change the entire grid characteristic. Here you can there is also a locking curve and locking element at the end of the lever, the entire bearing mechanism is then formed at the lever end and is a part after assembly, i.e. locking curve or locking element, is fixedly connected to the housing.

In bevorzugter Ausführungsform der Erfindung weist der Betätigungshebel vorzugsweise an seinem Endbereich zusätzlich eine Schalteinrichtung auf. Diese Schalteinrichtung, die beispielsweise aus Schaltern mit zwei oder mehr Stellungen, Potentiometern etc. besteht, ist über eine Verbindungsleitung mit einem sich am Montageende des Betätigungshebels befindlichen Stecker verbunden. Dieser Stecker kann dann im Gehäuse mit einer Anschlusseinrichtung verbunden werden, die die maximale Anzahl von möglichen Anschlüssen vollständig beinhaltet. So können nicht nur Betätigungshebel mit unterschiedlicher Schalteinrichtung mit derselben Anschlusseinrichtung verbunden werden, sondern auch Betätigungshebel mit gleicher Schalteinrichtung an verschiedene Anschlüsse der Anschlusseinrichtung angeschlossen werden. Vorteilhafterweise sind so eine Vielzahl von unterschiedlichen Funktionsmöglichkeiten zu realisieren.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the actuating lever has preferably an additional one at its end region Switching device on. This switching device, for example from switches with two or more positions, potentiometers etc. exists, is via a connecting line with a connector located at the assembly end of the operating lever connected. This connector can then be in the housing with a connection device connected to the the maximum number of possible connections completely included. So can not just operating levers with different switching devices be connected to the same connection device, but also operating levers with the same switching device connected to different connections of the connection device become. Advantageously, a large number of to implement different functions.

Die Kontakt- und die entsprechende Gegenkontakteinrichtung, die zur Registrierung der Positionen des Betätigungshebels dienen, können bei der Lenkstockschalteinheit nach der Erfindung wie übliche elektromechanische oder elektrische Kontakte ausgebildet sein. Hierfür bieten sich im Stand der Technik eine Vielzahl von Realisierungsmöglichkeiten wie Schließen und Öffnen von elektrischen Kontakten, Leiterbahnen, Betätigung von Schaltern und Ähnliches an.The contact and the corresponding counter-contact device, those for registering the positions of the operating lever can serve in the steering column switch unit according to the invention as usual electromechanical or electrical contacts be trained. The state of the art offers this a variety of implementation options such as closing and Opening of electrical contacts, conductor tracks, actuation of switches and the like.

In der bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung ist die Kontakteinrichtung als wenigstens ein Magnet und die entsprechende Gegenkontakteinrichtung als mindestens ein Hallsensor ausgebildet. Diese Variante funktioniert vorteilhafterweise verschleißfrei ohne mechanische Reibung.In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the contact device as at least one magnet and the corresponding one Countercontact device designed as at least one Hall sensor. This variant advantageously works without wear without mechanical friction.

Bei einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Erfindung umfasst die Lenkstockschalteinheit im Gehäuse eine Auswerteeinheit mit vordefiniertem maximalen Funktionsumfang zur Umsetzung der Signale, Kontakte und/oder Schalteinrichtung in Steuersignale für entsprechende Fahrzeugfunktionen. Auf einer derartigen Auswerteeinrichtung könnten beispielsweise verschiedene Signale miteinander verknüpft werden. Denkbar ist auch die Umsetzung analoger Signale wie beispielsweise die Hallsensorwerte oder die Widerstandswerte von Schaltern, Drehschaltern und Potentiometern in Steuersignale, beispielsweise für einen Scheibenwischermotor, hierauf unterzubringen.In a further embodiment of the invention, the Steering column switch unit in the housing with an evaluation unit predefined maximum functionality for implementing the Signals, contacts and / or switching device in control signals for corresponding vehicle functions. On such Evaluation device could, for example, different signals be linked together. Implementation is also conceivable analog signals such as the Hall sensor values or the resistance values of switches, rotary switches and potentiometers in control signals, for example for a wiper motor, to accommodate this.

Zur Realisierung dieser elektronischen Aufgaben kann die Auswerteeinheit festverdrahtet oder aus programmierbaren Logikbausteinen aufgebaut sein, wobei selbst die Anwendung eines Mikroprozessors mit Firmware denkbar ist.The evaluation unit can be used to implement these electronic tasks hard-wired or from programmable logic modules be built, even the application of a Microprocessor with firmware is conceivable.

Die Auswahl des Gesamtfunktionsumfangs der Auswerteeinheit kann bei der Erfindung wiederum durch den jeweils montierten Hebel beeinflusst werden. Die bereits geschilderte Möglichkeit der unterschiedlichen Kontakteinrichtung, Anschlusseinrichtung sowie mechanischer Bewegungscharakteristik können hierbei zu einer bestimmten Auswahl des Gesamtfunktionsumfangs der Auswerteeinheit dienen. Es ist aber auch denkbar, zusätzlich am oder im Hebel eine Kennung anzuordnen, die als zusätzlicher mechanischer, elektrischer oder elektronischer Kontakt mit einem entsprechenden Gegenkontakt im Gehäuse zusammenwirkt und auf diesem Wege eine Auswahl des Funktionsumfangs der Auswerteeinheit trifft. Hierfür ist es auch denkbar, im oder am Hebel einen elektronischen Chip, ähnlich einem Telefonkartenchip, anzubringen, der über die Anschlusseinrichtung oder eine elektronische Abtasteinrichtung zur Auswahl des Funktionsumfangs der Auswerteeinheit dient.The selection of the overall functional scope of the evaluation unit can in turn in the invention by the mounted Levers are influenced. The possibility already described the different contact device, connection device as well as mechanical movement characteristics can a specific selection of the overall functional scope of the evaluation unit serve. But it is also conceivable to add on or to arrange an identifier in the lever, which as an additional mechanical, electrical or electronic contact with a corresponding counter contact cooperates in the housing and in this way a selection of the functional scope of the evaluation unit meets. It is also conceivable for this in or on Lever an electronic chip, similar to a phone card chip, to attach, the connection device or a electronic scanner to select the range of functions serves the evaluation unit.

Durch die vorliegende Erfindung können mittels Massenproduktion der bis auf den Betätigungshebel gleichbleibenden Einheit die Herstellungskosten wesentlich gesenkt werden, ohne den Bedienerkomfort einzuschränken. Unterschiedliche Betätigungshebel können vorteilhafterweise mittels genormter mechanischer und elektrischer Anschlusseinrichtungen bei der Montage in den übrigen Teil der Lenkstockschalteinheit eingesetzt werden. Hierbei ist es sogar möglich, mittels automatischer Erkennung, welcher Hebeltyp eingesetzt wurde, die genaue Funktion der Lenkstockschalteinheit bei der Herstellung der Hebel genau zu definieren.By means of the present invention, by means of mass production the unit that remains the same except for the operating lever the manufacturing costs can be significantly reduced without the To reduce operator comfort. Different operating levers can advantageously by means of standardized mechanical and electrical connection devices during assembly in the remaining part of the steering column switch unit are used. It is even possible to use automatic detection, which lever type was used, the exact function of the Steering column switch unit in the manufacture of the levers exactly define.

Weitere Ausführungsformen der Erfindung ergeben sich aus den Unteransprüchen.Further embodiments of the invention result from the Dependent claims.

Die Erfindung wird nachfolgend anhand eines in der Zeichnung dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiels näher erläutert. In der Zeichnung zeigen:

Fig. 1
eine Querschnittansicht einer Lenkstockschalteinheit mit montiertem Betätigungshebel;
Fig. 2
eine Explosionszeichnung in perspektivischer Ansicht eines Betätigungshebels nach Fig. 1 vor der Montage und
Fig. 3
eine Explosionszeichnung in perspektivischer Ansicht einer anderen Ausführungsform eines Betätigungshebels.
The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to an embodiment shown in the drawing. The drawing shows:
Fig. 1
a cross-sectional view of a steering column switch unit with a mounted operating lever;
Fig. 2
an exploded view in perspective view of an operating lever of FIG. 1 before assembly and
Fig. 3
an exploded view in perspective view of another embodiment of an operating lever.

Bekannte Lenkstockschalteinheiten umfassen üblicherweise zwei oder drei Betätigungshebel für verschiedene Funktionen, wie für Blinker und Lichthupe, Scheibenwischerfunktionen und evtl. Licht. Die in Fig. 1 schematisch dargestellte Lenkstockschalteinheit 1 umfasst ein Gehäuse 3, das konzentrisch eine Lenksäule 5 eines Kraftfahrzeuges umgibt. Im Innenraum des Gehäuses 3 ist schematisch ein Kopf 7 eines einzelnen eingreifenden Betätigungshebels 9 dargestellt, ohne auf eventuelle andere vorhandene eingreifende Betätigungshebel näher einzugehen. Für solche weiteren Hebel gelten die folgenden Ausführungen für einen Betätigungshebel 9 deshalb entsprechend.Known steering column switch units usually comprise two or three operating levers for different functions, such as for turn signals and flasher, wiper functions and possibly Light. The steering column switch unit shown schematically in Fig. 1 1 comprises a housing 3 concentrically a steering column 5 surrounds a motor vehicle. Inside the case 3 is a schematic of a head 7 of an individual engaging Actuating lever 9 shown without any other Examine existing engaging actuation levers in more detail. For Such further levers apply to the following statements therefore an operating lever 9 accordingly.

Der quer zur Längsachse der Lenksäule 5 angeordnete Betätigungshebel 9 ist über eine achsparallel zur Längsachse angeordnete Achse 11 in bekannter, nicht näher dargestellte Weise, in dem Gehäuse 3 in einer Ebene senkrecht zur Längsachse der Lenksäule 5 schwenkbar gelagert. Hierfür verwendbare dreidimensionale Lagerungsvorrichtungen, die Quer- und Längsschwenkbewegungen, sowie ein Herausziehen und Einschieben des Betätigungshebels erlauben, sind im Stand der Technik zur Genüge bekannt und werden hier, da nicht erfindungswesentlich, nur schematisch durch Lagerung der Achse 11 dargestellt.The actuating lever arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis of the steering column 5 9 is arranged over an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis Axis 11 in a known manner, not shown, in the housing 3 in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the Steering column 5 pivotally mounted. Three-dimensional that can be used for this Storage devices, the transverse and longitudinal swiveling movements, as well as pulling out and pushing in the operating lever allow are sufficient in the prior art known and are here, since not essential to the invention, only represented schematically by mounting the axis 11.

Der Betätigungshebel 9 weist am stirnseitigen Ende seines Kopfes 7 ein Rastelement 13 auf, das in nicht näher dargestellter Weise in Richtung einer Rastkurve 15, beispielsweise mittels einer im Kopf 7 angeordneten Druckfeder, mit einer Kraft beaufschlagt wird. Der Kopf 7 des Betätigungshebels 9 weist an einer senkrecht zur Achse 11 liegenden Seitenwand sitzende (beispielsweise zwei) Magneten 17 auf. Diese Magneten 17 können, wie in Fig. 1 dargstellt, in unterschiedliche Abstände zur Achse 11 angeordnet sein, wobei sich selbstverständlich auch Magneten 17 mit gleichem Abstand zur Achse 11 nebeneinander entlang derselben Umfangslinie befinden können.The operating lever 9 has at the front end of it Head 7 a locking element 13, which in not shown Way in the direction of a locking curve 15, for example by means of a compression spring arranged in the head 7, with a force is applied. The head 7 of the operating lever 9 points to a side wall lying perpendicular to the axis 11 seated (for example two) magnets 17. This Magnets 17 can, as shown in Fig. 1, in different Distances to the axis 11 may be arranged of course, magnets 17 with the same distance to Axis 11 are next to each other along the same circumferential line can.

Gegenüber den Magneten 17 auf der Seitenwandung des Kopfes 7 befinden sich im Inneren des Gehäuses 3 Hallsensoren 21 auf einer zu der Seitenwandung co-planare und beabstandete Platine 19, so dass zwischen den Hallsensoren 21 und den Magneten 17 ein geringer Spielraum bleibt. Die Hallsensoren 19 sind in Zahl und Position (im Beispiel drei) bereits allen geplanten Betätigungshebeltypen mit unterschiedlicher Bewegungscharakteristik und deren unterschiedlich positionierten Magenten 17 angepasst. Im in Fig. 1 schematisch dargestellten Beispiel befinden sich auf der Platine 19 in unterschiedlichen radialen Abständen zur Achse 11 drei Hallsensoren 21, die jedoch in einer Ebene senkrecht zur Zeichenebene seitlich versetzt angeordnet sein können. Selbstverständlich können in dieser Ebene auch mehrere Hallsensoren 21 auf derselben Umfangslinie nebeneinander angeordnet sein.Opposite the magnet 17 on the side wall of the head 7 3 Hall sensors 21 are located inside the housing a board that is co-planar and spaced apart from the side wall 19, so that between the Hall sensors 21 and the magnets 17th there is little scope. The Hall sensors 19 are in Number and position (three in the example) already planned Actuator lever types with different movement characteristics and their differently positioned magents 17 customized. In the example shown schematically in FIG. 1 are located on the board 19 in different radial Distances to the axis 11 three Hall sensors 21, which, however, in laterally offset in a plane perpendicular to the drawing plane could be. Of course you can in this Level also several Hall sensors 21 on the same circumferential line be arranged side by side.

Durch das Vorsehen einer vordefinierten maximalen Anzahl von Hallsensorpositionen, ist es ohne Austausch der Platine 19 möglich, unterschiedliche Betätigungshebel 9 für unterschiedliche Funktionen einzusetzen.By providing a predefined maximum number of Hall sensor positions, it is without replacing the circuit board 19 possible different operating lever 9 for different Use functions.

Die Bewegungscharakteristik eines Betätigungshebels 9 hängt dabei von dem Zusammenspiel einer Rastkurve 15 und dem Rastelement 13 sowie von möglichen mechanischen Anschlägen ab. Hierbei ist jeweils ein Teil der zusammenwirkenden Teile ortsfest im Gehäuse 3 und das dazu komplementäre Teil am Kopf 7 des Betätigungshebels 9 angeordnet.The movement characteristic of an operating lever 9 depends the interaction of a locking curve 15 and the locking element 13 and possible mechanical stops. Here, a part of the interacting parts is stationary in the housing 3 and the complementary part on the head 7 of the operating lever 9 arranged.

In Fig. 1 befinden sich schematisch dargestellt beispielweise das Rastelement 13 am Kopf 7 des Betätigungshebels 9 und das hierzu komplementäre Teil, nämlich die konkave Rastkurve 15 ortsfest im Inneren des Gehäuses 3. Selbstverständlich ist auch die kinematische Umkehr möglich, wobei dann das Rastelement 13 im Inneren des Gehäuses 3 angeordnet ist und die Rastkurve 15 konvex an der Stirnseite des Kopfes 7 des Betätigungshebels 9 (Ausführungsform nach Fig. 3) ausgebildet ist. 1 are shown schematically, for example the locking element 13 on the head 7 of the actuating lever 9 and part complementary to this, namely the concave locking curve 15 stationary inside the housing 3. It goes without saying kinematic reversal is also possible, in which case the locking element 13 is arranged inside the housing 3 and the locking curve 15 convex on the face of the head 7 of the operating lever 9 (embodiment according to FIG. 3).

Fig. 2 zeigt in einer Explosionszeichnung den Betätigungshebel 9 als nicht montiertes Einzelteil. Das dem Kopf 7 gegenüber liegenden Ende des Betätigungshebels 9 ist als verbreiterter Griffbereich 23 ausgebildet, an dem Betätigungselemente angeordnet sein können. In Fig. 2 sind beispielsweise an der Unterseite des Griffsbereiches 23 ein Druckschalter 25 und an der Vorderseite ein Kippschalter 27 angeordnet.Fig. 2 shows an exploded view of the operating lever 9 as an unmounted single part. The head 7 opposite lying end of the operating lever 9 is as widened Handle area 23 formed, arranged on the actuating elements could be. In Fig. 2 are for example on the Underside of the grip area 23 and a pressure switch 25 the front of a toggle switch 27 is arranged.

Durch Betätigung des Druckschalters 25 werden über eine nicht dargestellte Mechanik ein Kontakt 29 und durch den Kippschalter 27 Kontakte 30 und 31 geschlossen und geöffnet. Diese Kontakte 29, 30, 31 befinden sich hierfür auf einer im Inneren des Griffbereichs 23 des Betätigungshebels 9 angeordneten Platine 33.By pressing the pressure switch 25 are not a Mechanics shown a contact 29 and by the toggle switch 27 contacts 30 and 31 closed and opened. This For this purpose, contacts 29, 30, 31 are located on one inside of the grip area 23 of the actuating lever 9 Board 33.

Die Kontakt 29, 30, 31 sind über eine Verbindungsleitung 35, die im Inneren des Betätigungshebels 9 verläuft, mit einem Stecker 37 bzw. dessen nicht dargestellte Kontaktstifte elektrisch verbunden.The contacts 29, 30, 31 are connected via a connecting line 35, which runs inside the operating lever 9, with a Plug 37 or its contact pins, not shown, electrically connected.

Bei der Montage der Lenkstockschalteinheit 1 wird dieser Stecker 37 in eine auf der Platine 19 befindliche oder mit dieser verbundene Anschlußeinrichtung eingesteckt. Die in Fig. 1 nicht dargestellte Anschlusseinrichtung kann beispielsweise als Universalkupplung ausgebildet sein, wobei sie bereits alle Kontakte für die unterschiedlichsten Hebeltypen vorrätig hält. Der hierzu komplemetäre Stecker 37 kann dann in seinen Außenmaßen exakt den Innenmaßen der Anschlusseinrichtung entsprechen, so dass ein die Montage vereinfachender genormter Anschluss gewährleistet ist. In diesem Fall weisen die unterschiedlichen Betätigungshebeltypen Stecker 37 gleicher Abmessungen auf, wobei dann nicht alle Kontaktstifte belegt sind oder vorhanden sein müssen. Es ist aber auch denkbar die Anschlusseinrichtung in Form von mehreren Anschlusskupplungen auszubilden, wobei dann je nachdem in welche Anschlusskupplung der Stecker 37 eingesteckt wird ein anderer Funktionsumfang ausgewählt werden kann.When installing the steering column switch unit 1, this becomes Plug 37 in a on the board 19 or with this connected connection device inserted. The in Fig. 1 connection device, not shown, can for example be designed as a universal clutch, all of them already Has contacts for a wide variety of lever types. The complementary connector 37 can then be in its outer dimensions correspond exactly to the internal dimensions of the connection device, so that a standardized connection simplifies assembly is guaranteed. In this case, the different ones Actuator lever types connector 37 of the same dimensions on, whereby then not all contact pins are occupied or must be present. However, the connection device is also conceivable in the form of several connection couplings to train, then depending on which connection coupling the plug 37 is inserted a different range of functions can be selected.

Der in Fig. 2 dargestellte Betätigungshebel 9 zeigt die Möglichkeit auf, den Kopf 7 des Betätigungshebels 9 stirnseitig als konvexe Rastkurve 15 auszubilden. Selbstverständlich muss dann, wie oben beschrieben, das Rastelement 13 entsprechend im Inneren des Gehäuses 3 angeordnet sein. Die Rastkurve 15 weist zwei Seitenwände 39, 40 auf, die im Zusammenspiel mit dem Rastelement 13 eine Bewegung quer zur Radialbewegung entlang der Rastkurve 15 verhindern. Ein derartiger Hebel mit als Anschlag dienenden Seitenwänden 39, 40 könnte beispielsweise als Scheibenwischerbetätigungshebel in Fahrzeugen ohne Heckscheibenwischer Verwendung finden und auf diese Weise unerwünschte mechanische Leerpositionen vermeiden. Weiterhin können Unter- und Oberseite des Kopfes 7 des Betätigungshebels 9 in Zusammenwirken mit hierzu komplementären Teilen in oder am Gehäuse 3 als Anschlag zur Begrenzung des Hebelweges entlang der Rastkurve 15 dienen.The operating lever 9 shown in Fig. 2 shows the possibility on, the head 7 of the operating lever 9 on the front form as a convex locking curve 15. Of course, must then, as described above, the locking element 13 accordingly in Be arranged inside the housing 3. The locking curve 15 has two side walls 39, 40, which in interaction with the Locking element 13 along a movement transverse to the radial movement prevent the locking curve 15. Such a lever with as Stop serving side walls 39, 40 could for example as a wiper control lever in vehicles without a rear wiper Find use and thus undesirable Avoid mechanical empty positions. Can continue Top and bottom of the head 7 of the operating lever 9 in cooperation with complementary parts in or on Housing 3 as a stop to limit the lever path along serve the locking curve 15.

Auf der Platine 19 (in Fig. 1) kann sich in nicht dargestellter Weise auch eine Elektronik befinden, die nicht nur die einzelnen Kontaktzustände und Hallsensorwerte weiterleitet, sondern diese auch auswertet, verknüpft und verarbeitet. So ist es beispielsweise denkbar, dass am Griffbereich 23 angeordnete Schalter analoge Signale in Form von unterschiedlichen Widerstandswerten übermitteln, die erst mittels elektronischer Logik in Steuersignal umgesetzt werden müssen. Die genaue Funktionsauswahl einer derartigen Auswerteeinheit, welche die maximale Anzahl von benötigten Funktionen bzw. Signalverarbeitungen grundsätzlich zur Verfügung stellt, kann dann wiederum je nach eingesetzem Hebeltyp ausgewählt werden. Beipielsweise ist es denkbar, auf der Platine 35 im Betätigungshebel 9 eine Schaltung anzubringen, die auch über die Verbindungsleitung 35 mit der Elektronik auf Platine 19 in Verbindung steht. Auf diese Art könnte ein bestimmter Hebeltyp elektronisch erkannt werden und zusätzlich zur unterschiedlichen Kontaktbelegung und mechanischer Bewegungscharakteristik auch den Funktionsumfang bzw. die Signalverarbeitung beeinflussen.On the board 19 (in Fig. 1) can be shown in Electronics are also not only the individual contact states and Hall sensor values, but also evaluates, links and processes them. So it is conceivable, for example, that arranged on the grip area 23 Switch analog signals in the form of different Transmit resistance values that only by means of electronic Logic must be converted into control signal. The exact Function selection of such an evaluation unit, which the maximum number of required functions or signal processing in principle, can then turn depending on the lever type used. example way it is conceivable, a on the board 35 in the operating lever 9 Attach circuit that also over the connecting line 35th communicates with the electronics on board 19. On this type could be electronically recognized by a certain type of lever and in addition to the different contact assignment and mechanical movement characteristics also the range of functions or influence the signal processing.

Claims (13)

  1. Steering shaft switching unit (1) having a housing (3) in which at least one actuation lever (9) is secured in a pivotable and/or slideable fashion,
    characterized in that the actuation lever (9) which can be inserted during assembly has a contact device,
    in that the steering shaft switching unit (1) has, for the purpose of making contact with the contact device, an appropriate corresponding contact device with a predefined maximum number of switching functions in the housing (3), the selection of switching functions which is used being dependent on the type of mountable actuation lever and its contact device.
  2. Steering shaft switching unit (1) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the actuation lever (9) has, at its end which can be mounted in the housing (3) a latching element (13) and at least one stop which restricts the movement along a latching cam (15), which can be arranged in the housing (3) to a predefinable range and/or restricts against a movement transverse with respect to the latching cam (15).
  3. Steering shaft switching unit (1) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the actuation lever (9) has, at its end which can be mounted in the housing (3), a latching cam (15) which interacts with a latching element (13) which can be arranged in the housing (3).
  4. Steering shaft switching unit (1) according to Claim 3, characterized in that the actuation lever (9) has, at its end which can be mounted in the housing (3), at least one stop which restricts the movement of the latching element (13), which is arranged in the housing (3), along a latching cam (15) to a predefinable range and/or restricts against a movement transverse with respect to the latching cam (15).
  5. Steering shaft switching unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuation lever (9) preferably has at its end region a switching unit which is connected via a connecting line (35) and a corresponding plug (37) to a connecting device with a predefined maximum number of terminals in the housing (3).
  6. Steering shaft switching unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact device and the corresponding contact device are embodied as electromechanical and/or electrical contacts.
  7. Steering shaft switching unit (1) according to Claim 6, characterized in that the electrical contact device is embodied as at least one magnet (17), and the corresponding contact device is embodied as at least one Hall sensor (21).
  8. Steering shaft switching unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the steering shaft switching unit (1) in the housing (3) comprises an evaluation unit with a predefined maximum functional scope for converting the signals of the contacts and/or switching device into control signals for corresponding vehicle functions.
  9. Steering shaft switching unit (1) according to Claim 8, characterized in that the evaluation unit is of hard wired design.
  10. Steering shaft switching unit (1) according to Claim 8, characterized in that the evaluation unit is embodied as an electronic logic controller with firmware.
  11. Steering shaft switching unit (1) according to one of Claims 8 to 10, characterized in that a selection of functional scope of the evaluation unit by means of an identifier arranged on the end, which can be mounted in the housing (3), of the actuation lever (9) and an identifying device which is correspondingly arranged in the housing is dependent on the respectively mounted actuation lever (9).
  12. Steering shaft switching unit (1) according to Claim 11, characterized in that the identifier and the identifying device are embodied as mechanical, electrical or electronic contacts and an appropriate corresponding contact.
  13. Steering shaft switching unit (1) according to Claim 11, characterized in that the identifier is embodied as an electronic chip and the identifying device as an electronic scanning device.
EP97120640A 1996-12-02 1997-11-25 Module steering column switch Expired - Lifetime EP0845389B2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE19649912A DE19649912A1 (en) 1996-12-02 1996-12-02 Module steering column switch
DE19649912 1996-12-02

Publications (4)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0845389A2 EP0845389A2 (en) 1998-06-03
EP0845389A3 EP0845389A3 (en) 1999-05-19
EP0845389B1 true EP0845389B1 (en) 2002-04-03
EP0845389B2 EP0845389B2 (en) 2005-01-12

Family

ID=7813374

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP97120640A Expired - Lifetime EP0845389B2 (en) 1996-12-02 1997-11-25 Module steering column switch

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US (1) US6118089A (en)
EP (1) EP0845389B2 (en)
JP (1) JPH10223097A (en)
KR (1) KR100302042B1 (en)
BR (1) BR9705507A (en)
DE (2) DE19649912A1 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
KR19980063677A (en) 1998-10-07
BR9705507A (en) 2001-09-18
JPH10223097A (en) 1998-08-21
EP0845389A2 (en) 1998-06-03
KR100302042B1 (en) 2001-10-27
US6118089A (en) 2000-09-12
DE19649912A1 (en) 1998-06-04
DE59706843D1 (en) 2002-05-08
EP0845389B2 (en) 2005-01-12
EP0845389A3 (en) 1999-05-19

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